Coffee Vs. Tea

We all know someone who can’t survive without her cup of coffee as well as that dancer who swears green tea is her health savior. But is one truly better than the other? We compared the two to see which is the best choice for a dancers’ overall well-being.

Coffee

Caffeine: 128–185 mg

Calories: Under 5

Nutrients: Good source of riboflavin and pantothenic acid

Effects on weight: High levels of caffeine can reduce appetite.

Emotional effects: Caffeine speeds up your heart rate, which can bring on stress and anxiety.

Injury prevention: Studies show that you will be less likely to make careless mistakes that result in injury when you are energized. But, you also might push yourself too hard with that extra jolt of energy.

Green Tea

Caffeine: 55 mg

Calories: 0

Nutrients: Good source of the antioxidant EGCG

Effects on weight: According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, green tea can take off about an inch of your waistline in 12 weeks. EGCG and caffeine help shrink fat cells while boosting muscle cells.

Emotional effects: Can calm nerves and decrease heart rate

Injury prevention: Green tea has anti-inflammatory properties which reduce muscle and joint aches as well as more antioxidants to feed tired muscles.

It seems that overall, green tea has more to offer the active dancing body. Its positive effects on muscle recovery and decrease in heart rate are especially important after a long rehearsal. However, both beverages are filled with antioxidants and offer benefits that your body will thank you for.